Yep, that's how much time it took me to run a half-marathon... I minute and 49 seconds :)

Haha, not even the first-place winner could do that! (He ran it in one hour, one minute.)

I was so excited to run this race this year, as I'd seen the swarm of runners go past my apartment last year, and I wanted to join in the fun. (Yes, for me, a 13-mile run is fun.)

Thankfully I already run, so I trained for 2 weeks. I don't know if I'd be able to keep it up for months!

Though I'm by no means a professional runner, I compiled a few tips that I've learned through other as well as through experience:

Training

• Be consistent. Don't do a week of strong training and then trail off.
• Eat well. No fried foods or fatty foods. Don't eat a lot of junk, but don't eat nothing at all. You have to take in the calories to fuel your training runs!
• Drink a lot of water, and try to intake water every 20 minutes of exercise. But don't drink too much.

Day before the race

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat carbs, but nothing with a lot of fat or protein... though you should still include fat and protein in your meals.
• Try to avoid fiber and roughage to prevent digestion problems
• Try to avoid medications like anti-allergy medications, anti-diarrheals, etc.

Race day

• Take the lightrail or other public transit to the race. This way, you can beat traffic and not have to worry about driving before or after the race... especially once you get your free beer at the finish line :)
• Drink some sports drink when you get up in the morning, and keep taking in fluids until the race starts... though don't drink too much!
• Have a light snack, but nothing 30 minutes before the race or you'll get cramps.
• Make sure your race number and time tag are securely attached.
• If you have a gear back, check it in at the start line, and don't leave valuables inside.

During the race

• Don't get too excited and go out too fast at the start.
• Keep drinking! Try to have water as well as sports drink. There are 6 water stations along the track, so take advantage of them!
• If you have gels like GU, make sure to drink a lot of water to dilute it and avoid cramps.
• Stop at an aid station if you need to! Don't overexert yourself... seriously. Please, if anything really hurts - including your chest and heart - please stop and take care of yourself.
• Enjoy the free music and cheer sections! I didn't even use an iPod :)
• Enjoy the scenery of the 10th-largest city in the U.S.

After the race

• Take a little walk right after finishing to keep your blood flowing.
• Keep drinking water or sports drink.
• Visit an aid station if you need ice, medicine, etc.
• Take advantage of the free goodies! Muffins, fruits, snacks, and more await you at the finish.
• Eat a good meal at the end! Try not to get anything too unhealthy... although it's a great chance to treat yourself :)
• Don't forget to take a picture with your new medal!

Congratulations!